The Definitive Guide to Living in the Capital , Cairo , Egypt

It’s become a true a cliché as the saying about how much Egyptian love to eat, but coming a close second is our love of lounging, hanging-out, loitering and just generally shooting the breeze, as they say.

There is of course no shortage of cafes and restaurants to do all those things at, but in the winners in the Lounge Awards category, we pay homage to venues that tick all the boxes – good food, good drinks and a great atmosphere

Beetroot

It was a surprise to many when the Lemon Tree & Co., closed down, but out of its ashes came Beetroot – a restaurant, lounge and bar that took all that was great about the Lemon Tree and elevated it to a concept that brought together great food, great service and great atmosphere.

Left Bank

Boasting the hustle and bustle of a moder Metropolitan venue, there are few versatile places in Cairo as Left Bank. Suitable as a restaurant, café, a general hangout, study space or even business meeting spot, the great food and drink, as well as the Nile-side location, make it one of the best.

Loft21

The second of two winners this year from Cairo Capital Club, Loft21 bares the hallmarks of a Manhattan bar and restaurant, serving up some fantastic dishes and acting as a great, casual-chic bar perfect for intimate dinners and bigger gatherings – and what a view!

Sequoia

Say what you will about Sequoia, there’s nothing quite like it in Cairo and its continuing popularity is owed to its willingness to change with the times. Sitting at the very tip of Zamalek, it stands as one of the most versatile and unique venues of its kind.

Ney Lounge

Taking the space of a renovated Zamalek villa, Ney Lounge, captures the casual hustle and bustle of a contemporary Egyptian café, but rounds it off with good service, a solid menu and some of the best shisha you’ll find on the island.

Hookah Lounge

Speaking of shisha, Hookah Lounge stand as one of the most frequented venues in Heliopolis, offering a huge range of quality shisha options and a vibe that is colourful, lively and casual, while staying somewhat cosy – expect it to be busy this summer.

For more on the 2016 Cairo 360 Editors’ Choice Awards, click here, where you can find all of this year’s winners.